A Toxic-free Future for Cosmetics
A Toxic-free Future for Cosmetics by CARAFINA Founder
The cosmetics industry grows each year, with new beauty products being created consistently. Millions of us rely on cosmetics daily, but do we know what ingredients are used? Surprisingly, many brands use harmful chemicals to make day-to-day products, some of which can cause severe health issues and have even been linked to cancer. Whether it be lotions, creams or makeup, it is important that consumers know what chemicals their body is coming into contact with to allow them to make an informed decision on the items they buy and use.
Do You Know What’s in Your Products?
Cancer-related chemicals are found in many everyday products, foods and even water. While the contaminants found in cosmetic products may pose low risks, exposure to them could nonetheless result in serious and sometimes irreversible health implications, including some cancers.
It isn’t always easy to know the exact ingredients in products. While the FDA regulates certain chemicals, companies are not legally obliged to list all ingredients contained in their cosmetics. This means millions of consumers are potentially putting themselves at risk unknowingly.
Prohibited Ingredients
A carcinogen is a substance that can potentially cause cancer in living tissue. Examples of carcinogens are Formaldehyde, Phenacetin and Ethylene Oxide. Other harmful chemicals used in the cosmetics industry that have been linked to some cancers, congenital disabilities, and reproductive problemsinclude:
The US Cosmetic laws state that eleven ingredients are prohibited for use in cosmetics, while the EU regulations have a more substantial list of prohibited substances.
Parabens
One of the key chemicals banned in the EU beauty industry is Parabens (or Parahydroxybenzoates). These are manufacturedsubstances that stop the growth of bacteria and mold and are used to preserve food, drinks, medicine and cosmetic products, enhancing their lifespan. Paraben is a name for agroup of substances called parahydroxybenzoates or esters of parahydroxybenzoic acid. These are popular chemicals for many industries due to their low cost and preservative qualities. You might find them in things such as lubricants, shaving gels, spray tanning solutions, hair products, makeup, toothpaste and moisturizers. The health risks linked to parabens include:
Talc
Talc is a natural mineral consisting of magnesium, silicon, oxygen, and hydrogen. It has many uses within the beauty product industry as it absorbs moisture, helps makeup look opaque and prevents products from caking. Talc containingasbestos is a carcinogen, and potential links between talc in cosmetics and cancer go back to the 1960s, with the FDA consistently researching this. While the link is not proven nor disproved, it is undoubtedly a cause for concern. Talc has also been associated with some respiratory disorders, Pneumonia, Asthma and Talcosis.
Environmentally Conscious Beauty Products
While parabens are prohibited in the beauty industry in the EU, this is not the case in the US. Carafina LLC does not believe in using toxic or potentially harmful ingredients in their products. You will see from their skincare and makeup products they list ingredients for full transparency. Carafinaconcealers and foundations are paraben, Talc and gluten-free as well as Vegan friendly.
Carafina LLC’s serums, cleansers and moisturizers aim to protect and nourish your skin, while their lipsticks and eye makeup range offer healthy beauty options that are free from harmful toxic chemicals and non-sustainable ingredients. All Carafina LLC products are manufactured under strict regulations in the USA and Canada rather than in developing countries. This allows them to offer healthy and environmentally conscious products that are not exposed to hazards or toxic ingredients. Their product range includes consumer-focused skincare and makeup made with organic, natural ingredients sourced ethically. Their commitment to sustainability makes them a fantastic option for the eco-conscious consumer.
Final Thoughts
Using harmful or toxic substances in cosmetics is unnecessary and arguably not worth the potential risks. While not every ingredient will be clearly listed on all beauty products, it is integral that customers research products before purchasing to ensure they protect themselves from toxic ingredients. Products that prioritize the use of natural and organic ingredients are kinder to human and environmental health, and consumers are notably shifting away from toxic cosmetics.
